Preserving Your Legacy. Powering Your Future.

We are a Chicago-based team of proven operators acquiring and growing essential businesses. We combine the discipline of public company leadership with the pragmatism of modern AI to ensure enduring growth.

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WHO WE ARE

Operators, Not Financial Engineers.

We are long-term owner-operators seeking a thoughtful transition for founder-led businesses. As immigrants who built our own paths from the ground up, we understand the sheer grit required to create a legacy. We know the weight of handing over your life’s work because we have been founders and operators ourselves.

We bring the discipline of public company leadership combined with a practical, local operating approach. We prioritize certainty, integrity, and partnership throughout the acquisition process.

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The Strategy

Hands-On Leadership

Rooted in the Greater Chicago and Midwest region, we believe in being present. We don't manage from a spreadsheet; we provide hands-on leadership to support your team and customers.

Sustainable Growth

We focus on optimizing durable, recurring revenue streams. Our goal is ensuring sustainable, enduring growth for employees and customers alike, preserving the legacy you built.

Pragmatic AI & Analytics

Drawing on our background in technology-enabled marketplaces, we apply AI and advanced analytics selectively. We use technology to support better decisions without disrupting daily operations.

Modernizing Without Disruption

At Sterra ai, we apply the advanced analytics strategies used in top-tier technology companies to essential businesses. Our focus is pragmatic: using technology to support better decisions and sustainable margins.

  • Utilizing data for sharper operational planning.

  • Using analytics to better understand and serve your client base.

  • Automating the mundane to let your team focus on the meaningful.

Our Team

Stan Chia

Managing Partner

Stan has a proven track record of scaling complex businesses into industry leaders. Drawing on his experience as a public company CEO and COO, he brings hands-on operational discipline to every partnership, helping founders navigate their transition while preserving the legacy they built.

Partner

Riva Bakal

Riva specializes in building and scaling operational engines from the ground up. Drawing on her deep experience in strategy and operations for high-growth public companies, she partners with founders to professionalize their systems, ensuring that strategic vision translates into sustainable, long-term value.

Explore a Partnership

We are always interested in connecting with exceptional founders. If you are considering a transition, please fill out your information below. We will be in touch shortly to discuss your goals and how we might work together.